moving beyond the thirds
“Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.”
The rule of thirds is a staple for many photographers, providing a foundation for the understanding of composition.
But while rules can be important educational tools there comes a point where the application of rigid guidelines stifle creativity and make artwork predictable, less interesting.
My perspective on the rule of thirds is that it provides a good starting point when learning to frame an image, but we need to push ourselves beyond such limitations if we are to fully unlock the potential in our work.
But how do we move past what has historically been a core element of our compositions? My view is that photographers should wean themselves of this rule in favor of the following two key considerations.
Balance
This is actually a natural extension of the traditional rule, seeking visual balance between the elements within the frame rather than limiting placement to the strict third boundaries. This is not to say that primary elements can never be placed on a third intersection, but by permitting ourselves the freedom to stray offers us a chance to optimize the balance within the frame.
Feel
I am a major proponent of creating compositions that feel right. At the end of the day, we strive to produce images that please us, so using your gut feeling works exceedingly well towards achieving your own success. Simply said, if it feels right it probably is - directing attention to the ‘rules’ may ultimately result in missing out on any personal connection created between photographer and scene.
In essence, I feel that seeking balance within the frame will lead to more creative, interesting, and ultimately fulfilling images.
This viewpoint is echoed in a video by Allister Benn on his Expressive Photography YouTube channel
Why the Rule of Thirds is ruining your photography and your creativity?
Examples
An understanding may be better gained by viewing the following examples. I provide my own thought process, but I would encourage readers to visualize how the results may appear otherwise.
In this image it would have been easy to follow the rules and place the horizon squarely on the lower horizontal third. However, I feel the visual weight of the land mass needed to be controlled to achieve balance with the lighter sky.
Here there is a strong connection between the figure on the bench and the small cloud in the sky. Had either (or both) been placed on the thirds the conveyed story would be much different.
Finally, above is an image that clearly does conform with the rule of thirds. Although this is a strong composition it must be said that the rule of thirds was not considered at the time of capture. As in all cases I instead looked to find a composition that felt balanced, and it just so happens in this instance that the balance I was looking for aligns with those rules.
By this point I hope that readers view rules in a different light, and to consider looking beyond such restrictions to create more fulfilling outcomes. You won’t regret it!!!!